South Sudan

World Book Index

Introduction

South Sudan, the world’s newest country, emerged from a long struggle for independence from Sudan, achieving its sovereignty in 2011. This young nation has faced significant challenges since its inception, including the establishment of a stable political framework. The promises made to the southern population during Sudan's independence in 1956 were not honored, leading to decades of conflict. The ongoing issues of corruption, political strife, and ethnic violence have hindered the development of a cohesive governance structure. Despite the signing of a peace agreement in 2018, progress has been slow as leaders continue to negotiate power-sharing arrangements, leaving the nation in a precarious state.

Neighboring countries

Central African Republic - Democratic Republic of the Congo - Ethiopia - Kenya - Sudan - Uganda

Geography

Area
Total: 644,329 sq km

Climate
The climate of South Sudan is characterized by hot temperatures and seasonal rainfall, which is significantly influenced by the annual shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone. Rainfall is most abundant in the upland areas of the south, gradually diminishing as one moves northward, creating a diverse ecological landscape that supports various forms of life.

Natural resources
South Sudan is endowed with a wealth of natural resources, including hydropower potential, fertile agricultural land, and valuable minerals such as gold, diamonds, and petroleum. The country also possesses hardwoods, limestone, iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten, mica, and silver. However, the lack of infrastructure has impeded the effective utilization of these resources, presenting both challenges and opportunities for future development.

People and Society

Population
Total: 12,703,714 (2024 estimated)

Ethnic groups
The population of South Sudan is ethnically diverse, with the Dinka (Jieng) making up approximately 35-40%, followed by the Nuer (Naath) at around 15%. Other ethnic groups include the Shilluk (Chollo), Azande, Bari, Kakwa, Kuku, Murle, Mandari, Didinga, Ndogo, Bviri, Lndi, Anuak, Bongo, Lango, Dungotona, Acholi, Baka, and Fertit (2011 estimated). This rich tapestry of ethnicities contributes to the cultural complexity of the nation, but it has also been a source of tension and conflict.

Languages
English serves as the official language of South Sudan, while Arabic, including Juba and Sudanese variants, is widely spoken. Additionally, numerous ethnic languages such as Dinka, Nuer, Bari, Zande, and Shilluk reflect the country’s cultural diversity.

Religions
The religious landscape is predominantly Christian, comprising 60.5% of the population, followed by folk religions at 32.9%, and Muslims at 6.2%. A small percentage identifies as other or unaffiliated (2020 estimated). This religious diversity plays a significant role in the social fabric of the nation, influencing cultural practices and community interactions.

Population growth rate
4.65% (2024 estimated)

Government

Government type
Presidential republic

Capital
Name: Juba

Executive branch
The chief of state and head of government is President Salva KIIR Mayardit, who has held office since 9 July 2011. His leadership has been marked by efforts to stabilize the nation amidst ongoing challenges.

Diplomatic representation in the US
The chief of mission is Ambassador Santino Fardol Watod DICKEN, who has served since 18 September 2024.

Diplomatic representation from the US
The chief of mission is Ambassador Michael J. ADLER, who has been in position since 24 August 2022.

Economy

Economic overview
South Sudan's economy is classified as low-income and heavily reliant on oil, which poses significant vulnerabilities. The country faces extreme poverty and widespread food insecurity, exacerbated by the impacts of COVID-19 and ongoing violence that threaten its socioeconomic potential. The environmental fragility of the region, coupled with unresolved land and property rights issues, complicates the economic landscape. Despite its rich natural resources, the lack of infrastructure hampers development and investment opportunities.

Real GDP (purchasing power parity)
$6.752 billion (2023 estimated)
$6.585 billion (2022 estimated)
$6.945 billion (2021 estimated)

Real GDP per capita
$400 (2023 estimated)
$400 (2022 estimated)
$400 (2021 estimated)

Exports
$4.499 billion (2023 estimated)
$5.811 billion (2022 estimated)
$4.652 billion (2021 estimated)

Exports - partners
China 51%, Singapore 29%, UAE 10%, Germany 4%, Uganda 3% (2023)

Exports - commodities
Crude petroleum, refined petroleum, forage crops, gold, scrap iron (2023)

Imports
$4.443 billion (2023 estimated)
$6.402 billion (2022 estimated)
$4.037 billion (2021 estimated)

Imports - partners
Uganda 33%, UAE 26%, Kenya 14%, China 10%, USA 3% (2023)

Imports - commodities
Garments, cement, other foods, iron bars, cereal flours (2023)

Human Development Index

The country's Human Development Index (HDI) is 0.388, ranking it 193rd out of 193 countries tested. (more information)

World Happiness Report

The World Happiness Report ranked the country 156th out of 158 countries tested with a score of 2.817. (more information)